Rockies 2017 preview: Colorado's lineup packs a punch, but does it equal postseason?

Rockies fans must be one of the most conflicted fan bases in all of sports.

On one hand, they get to watch their team punish opposing pitchers — at home — with one of the most potent lineups in MLB. Unfortunately, Colorado has struggled to stop opposing teams from scoring just as easily.

Will this year be different? Probably not, but at least the Rockies discovered young ace-in-the-making Jon Gray last season. The rest of the rotation, however, could be a problem.

Nolan Arenado and Carlos Gonzalez will lead an explosive lineup that was bolstered by the rise of Trevor Story and Charlie Blackmon over the last two seasons. This team could lead MLB in runs scored this season.

The postseason is an attainable goal for Colorado, but it will need to play better on the road and get solid production from its now-healthy bullpen.

Colorado Rockies schedule 2017

The Rockies begin the season with a four-game road series in Milwaukee against the Brewers starting April 3. Colorado's first home series is April 7-9 against the Dodgers.

The Rockies' most important early-season series is a three game road test against the Diamondbacks from April 28-30.

Rockies projected bullpen

Rockies fantasy baseball sleeper

DJ LaMehieu, 2B — Despite limited speed and power, LaMehieu has tremendous fantasy value due to his elite batting average, on-base percentage and runs scored upside. LaMehieu does have enough speed and power to be effective in all fantasy formats, and his floor is high because of all his other positive attributes.

Rockies top prospect(s)

Brendan Rodgers, SS — Rodgers is one of the top prospects in baseball. Currently blocked by Story and Arenado — neither of whom is moving anytime soon — Rodgers will have to spend another year in the minors or become an elite trading chip for Colorado if the club is in contention come July.